Newly Licensed Grad Needs Help

Jules A, MSN · Dec 4, 2009

I'm sorry you are having touble finding your first job. Could you check in with any of the facilities where you had clinical rotation? If you made a good impression on any of the nurses or supervisors they might be a good contact. Try to get face time if possible rather than just doing it online. It will happen!

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Dec 4, 2009

Are you applying only to hospitals in your area? I'm asking this question because many new grads hold out for the dream job on a hospital unit and refuse to accept positions at nursing homes, home health agencies, dialysis centers, hospices, clinics, etc. If you are willing to commute, I would apply to every healthcare facility within a 50 to 75 mile radius of your home. After you apply, follow up approximately one week later with a "thank you" card addressed to the person who does the hiring. Submit your applications in person during business hours to nursing homes, hospices, and home health companies, because a neatly dressed applicant who is physically in the building is hard to ignore.

The slumping economy also plays a huge role. Nursing is not as recession-proof as many people are fooled to believe.

Peachez8207 · Dec 4, 2009

I am applying everywhere I'm not picky as a new graduate I need experience more than anything and eventually I can move up.

nitalpn · Dec 4, 2009

I am a new lpn graduate with license also. I live in georgia. i understand how you feel cause i am faced with the same problem i have applied 90 miles out to everything. If there is anyone who could help it would be much appreciated.

:crying2:

mysticalmoonray · Dec 8, 2009

I recently moved to Louisiana and am having the same problem. I graduated in another state and have 4 months experience in LTC, and doctor offices. However everywhere I apply I'm getting phone calls and feeling hopeful but I get the same answer...."Oh we're looking for a minimum of 1 year in med-surg in a hosptial"....ok how do I get the experience if no one gives me a chance?

Peachez8207 · Dec 11, 2009

My point exactly. I am not going to give up and I am still applying everywhere under the sun I want to work scratch that I need to work. So any assistance that can be offered is still wanted.

Lorrie34 · Mar 23, 2010

In my job-seeking experiences, "1 yr. prior expereince required" translates to "we don't know you and nobody that we trust has put a good word in for you so we are not going to take a chance on you". When it comes down to that, it's all about networking. Call your insturctors that would put a good word in for you, use them for a reference...know any nurses out there working? Use them and get to know the VIPs that they know that could help you get your foot in the door. It's terrible to endure, I know, but you will catch a break if you persist and know the right people and are at the right place at the right time.

When you do get your break, don't let them regret it--work all those doubles and do all the extras! They will see what an asset you are for them and you will get rewarded! Trust me!

I had to take my first job from a friend putting in a good word for me. The D.O.N. didn't even have my resume and my friend talked me up so much to her that she practically hired me over the phone before she met me at the interview! As soon as I got on there, I worked my tail off. I took every double they called me out for, I never said no to them when they asked me to pick up extra shifts either. Within 2 months, I managed to find another job much closer to my home. When I submitted my 2 weeks notice, the D.O.N. almost shed tears. They made offers for me to stay with them and it got a little ugly between them and the prespective employer (they exchanged informal e-mails and texts about my leaving/staying) and all I think now is that I went through such a tough time getting A job and now I have already started to make a GOOD name for myself and job offers are there if you prove yourself to the ones that matter:)